Cat History Rewritten: Domestication Happened Far Later Then Previously Believed
PARIS – A groundbreaking genetic study is forcing scientists to rewrite the timeline of cat domestication, pushing its origins back by millennia. For decades, the prevailing theory held that cats began their close relationship with humans as early as 9,000 years ago, coinciding with the dawn of agriculture. New research, though, demonstrates that the process of feline domestication began a mere 2,000 years ago, dramatically reshaping our understanding of how these animals became integrated into human society.
The study, led by Marco de Martino, reveals that domestic cats aren’t descended from a long lineage of gradually tamed felines, but rather trace their ancestry directly to wild cats from North Africa. This challenges long-held assumptions about the co-evolution of humans and cats, and suggests their widespread presence in our lives is a relatively recent phenomenon. “We are postponing the introduction of cats from 8 or 9,000 years ago to just 2,000 years ago,” de Martino summarizes.”It’s a whole different story!”
The research indicates that cats rapidly spread throughout the Roman Empire beginning in the 1st century BC,appearing as far afield as the british Isles within decades. Their inherent usefulness in controlling rodents, coupled with their naturally charming disposition, quickly cemented their role as valued companions. “Within a few decades, they were found everywhere within the borders of the Roman Empire,” explains de Martino. this swift integration led to the emergence of the “chat servant” – the domestic cat – and the beginning of a meteoric rise that continues to this day.
The findings have significant implications for archaeologists and geneticists studying the relationship between humans and animals. Further research will focus on pinpointing the specific genetic markers that facilitated this relatively rapid domestication process and exploring the cultural factors that contributed to the cat’s enduring appeal. The story of our feline companions, it turns out, is far more recent – and perhaps more surprising – than we ever imagined.